Event & Workshop Calendar

Aug
30

Crawford House Open Hours

Explore the historic Crawford House at your own pace or enjoy a guided tour led by one of our board member docents.

Open every Sunday from 1 to 4 PM

Suggested donation: $5

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Junior Historian: Sustainable Decor
Sep
3

Junior Historian: Sustainable Decor

Kristen Thornton-De Stafeno is the Programming, Marketing & Communications Librarian at the Newburgh Free Library, where she develops creative programs that bring people together through learning, making, and community engagement. She enjoys designing hands-on workshops that encourage participants to explore new skills while thinking creatively about everyday materials.

In this workshop, Kristen will show participants how to create sustainable miniature décor using recycled, repurposed, and natural materials. Participants will learn simple techniques for transforming found objects into charming miniature accessories while exploring ways to reduce waste and embrace environmentally conscious crafting. Whether you're adding finishing touches to a dollhouse, creating a tiny display, or simply looking for new ways to reuse materials, this workshop offers plenty of inspiration for makers of all skill levels.

Registration is required for this workshop. To adopt a dollhouse and register, or to ask questions, email Kristen at kthornton-destafeno@rcls.org or call 845-563-3650.

History House is a collaborative initiative of the Newburgh Historical Society, the Newburgh Free Library, and Archtober Newburgh. The program is funded by the Newburgh Free Library.

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Sep
6

Crawford House Open Hours

Explore the historic Crawford House at your own pace or enjoy a guided tour led by one of our board member docents.

Open every Sunday from 1 to 4 PM

Suggested donation: $5

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Junior Historian: Architectural Features & Forms of Newburgh
Sep
9

Junior Historian: Architectural Features & Forms of Newburgh

Matthew Thorenz is the Local History & Government Documents Librarian at the Newburgh Free Library, where he helps connect the community with the rich history of Newburgh through archival collections, historic records, maps, photographs, and local research resources. He is passionate about making local history accessible and helping people better understand the places where they live.

In this workshop, Matthew will explore the architectural features and styles that define Newburgh's historic buildings. Participants will learn how to identify common architectural forms, recognize distinctive design elements, and gain a deeper appreciation for the city's diverse built environment. Whether you're a homeowner, preservation enthusiast, history buff, or simply curious about the neighborhoods around you, this workshop offers an engaging introduction to the architecture that has shaped Newburgh's unique character.

Registration is required for this workshop. To adopt a dollhouse and register, or to ask questions, email Kristen at kthornton-destafeno@rcls.org or call 845-563-3650.

History House is a collaborative initiative of the Newburgh Historical Society, the Newburgh Free Library, and Archtober Newburgh. The program is funded by the Newburgh Free Library.

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Sep
13

Crawford House Open Hours

Explore the historic Crawford House at your own pace or enjoy a guided tour led by one of our board member docents.

Open every Sunday from 1 to 4 PM

Suggested donation: $5

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Junior Historian: 3D Printed Mini Furniture
Sep
17

Junior Historian: 3D Printed Mini Furniture

Brian Sullivan is the Youth Services Librarian at the Newburgh Free Library, where he helps young people and families explore creativity through technology, making, and hands-on learning. He enjoys introducing participants to emerging technologies and finding fun, accessible ways to bring ideas to life.

In this workshop, Brian will introduce participants to the basics of 3D printing by demonstrating how miniature furniture can be designed and produced using a 3D printer. Participants will learn how digital models become physical objects, explore the possibilities of 3D-printed miniatures, and discover how this technology can be used to create unique pieces for dollhouses, dioramas, tabletop games, and other miniature worlds. Whether you're new to 3D printing or curious about its creative potential, this workshop offers an engaging introduction to the process.

Registration is required for this workshop. To adopt a dollhouse and register, or to ask questions, email Kristen at kthornton-destafeno@rcls.org or call 845-563-3650.

History House is a collaborative initiative of the Newburgh Historical Society, the Newburgh Free Library, and Archtober Newburgh. The program is funded by the Newburgh Free Library.

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Sep
17

Cocktails and Collections

Liam Mitchell (Washington’s Headquarters State Historic Site) will give a lecture on Newburgh’s role in the Revolutionary War. Come and enjoy an evening with us at the Crawford House while sipping on a cocktail or mocktail. This lecture is free to the public, though a donation is requested.

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Archive Workshop: The Life of a Newburgh Farmer: The Diary of Solomon Watts
Sep
20

Archive Workshop: The Life of a Newburgh Farmer: The Diary of Solomon Watts

This workshop focuses on a diary of a Newburgh farmer written in 1841-3 that was recently donated to the Newburgh Historical Society. Participants will practice reading and transcribing portions of the diary and consider the evidence for agricultural practices, seasonal rhythms and rural life in early nineteenth century Newburgh. Some materials will be distributed in advance. There is a $20 materials fee for this workshop, though HSNBH members can register for free.

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Sep
20

Crawford House Open Hours

Explore the historic Crawford House at your own pace or enjoy a guided tour led by one of our board member docents.

Open every Sunday from 1 to 4 PM

Suggested donation: $5

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Newburgh Open Studios
Sep
26

Newburgh Open Studios

The Crawford House will participate with a group show and exhibition opening in Newburgh Open Studios, Saturday, September 26 and Sunday, September 27 from 12-6 pm both days. Featured artists in the Crawford House group show include Gayle Clark Fedigan, Sandy Brandman, Cathy Cahill, JoAnn Johnson, Ann Marie Silvano, Barbara Valentino, Elizabeth Roche, Cathy Prager, Judy Byrne, Lily Norton and Katherine Mahoney.

We will also feature the opening of our expanded 2026 Exhibition “The World of Thomas Pope” with the unveiling of twelve landscape paintings by Newburgh’s Hudson River School artist. These paintings, installed in the downstairs gallery and elsewhere throughout the Crawford House, help to demonstrate the development of Pope’s aesthetic style through the nineteenth century.

Light refreshments will be available throughout the day, and restrooms are open for public use.

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Newburgh Open Studios
Sep
27

Newburgh Open Studios

The Crawford House will participate with a group show and exhibition opening in Newburgh Open Studios, Saturday, September 26 and Sunday, September 27 from 12-6 pm both days. Featured artists in the Crawford House group show include Gayle Clark Fedigan, Sandy Brandman, Cathy Cahill, JoAnn Johnson, Ann Marie Silvano, Barbara Valentino, Elizabeth Roche, Cathy Prager, Judy Byrne, Lily Norton and Katherine Mahoney.

We will also feature the opening of our expanded 2026 Exhibition “The World of Thomas Pope” with the unveiling of twelve landscape paintings by Newburgh’s Hudson River School artist. These paintings, installed in the downstairs gallery and elsewhere throughout the Crawford House, help to demonstrate the development of Pope’s aesthetic style through the nineteenth century.

Light refreshments will be available throughout the day, and restrooms are open for public use.

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Sep
27

Crawford House Open Hours

Explore the historic Crawford House at your own pace or enjoy a guided tour led by one of our board member docents.

Open every Sunday from 1 to 4 PM

Suggested donation: $5

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Sep
27

Meet, Mingle, & Make History

Meet the Historical Society’s current board, connect with fellow members, and learn how you can become more involved in preserving Newburgh’s history. Open to all especially those interested in volunteering, becoming a member, and joining our board.

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Oct
3

3rd Annual Newburgh Porchfest

Porchfest returns with dozens of musical performances on porches all around the city of Newburgh on Saturday, October 3, 2026 from 12-6 pm! The Crawford House Porch will again serve as a stage welcoming several musicians throughout the day. Check social media for map and updates as the date approaches!

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Oct
4

Crawford House Open Hours

Explore the historic Crawford House at your own pace or enjoy a guided tour led by one of our board member docents.

Open every Sunday from 1 to 4 PM

Suggested donation: $5

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Oct
15

Cocktails and Collections

Come and enjoy an evening with us at the Crawford House while sipping on a cocktail or mocktail. This lecture is free to the public, though a donation is requested.

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Archive Workshop: Researching the History of Your Home
Oct
25

Archive Workshop: Researching the History of Your Home

Learn how to effectively research a historic structure in the City of Newburgh, with a focus on preservation. Architectural Historian James Kelly will show how to “read” a building, focusing on contextualizing architectural details and building techniques. We will also discuss sources available in Newburgh and beyond to help you reconstruct the history of a building, along with strategies to assess conflicting evidence. Come prepared with your own questions and projects. This workshop is free and offered as part of Archtober Newburgh.

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Nov
19

Cocktails and Collections

Come and enjoy an evening with us at the Crawford House while sipping on a cocktail or mocktail. This lecture is free to the public, though a donation is requested.

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Annual Candlelight Tour of Historic Homes
Dec
13

Annual Candlelight Tour of Historic Homes

Take a step into the Newburgh of yesteryear with the Annual Candlelight Tour of Historic Homes! For nearly half a century, the Historical Society has organized self-guided holiday tours of historic homes, churches, and buildings in and around Newburgh. The Annual Candlelight Tour is one of the most anticipated Newburgh events of the year and is now our biggest fundraiser.

This year's tour will feature a combination of public and private spaces, including beautiful homes, restored churches, new construction, and some of Newburgh's most cherished landmarks. And, of course, the Captain David Crawford House, authentically decorated in nineteenth-century holiday style with fruit, dried flowers and evergreens, will serve as the starting point and centerpiece of the tour.

ADVANCE tickets: $35; online sales open 11/1/2026; or purchase directly from the Crawford House in person or by phone on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays (2-6 pm) or Sundays (1-4 pm); cash, check, credit cards. DAY OF ticket purchase $40.

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Dec
20

Candlelight Concert at the Crawford House

This year, join us for a special evening of classical music in the richly decorated and candlelit parlors of the Crawford House on Sunday, December 20, 2026 at 4 pm. Tickets go on sale on 11/1/2026.

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Junior Historian: 3D Printed Mini Furniture
Aug
27

Junior Historian: 3D Printed Mini Furniture

Brian Sullivan is the Youth Services Librarian at the Newburgh Free Library, where he helps young people and families explore creativity through technology, making, and hands-on learning. He enjoys introducing participants to emerging technologies and finding fun, accessible ways to bring ideas to life.

In this workshop, Brian will introduce participants to the basics of 3D printing by demonstrating how miniature furniture can be designed and produced using a 3D printer. Participants will learn how digital models become physical objects, explore the possibilities of 3D-printed miniatures, and discover how this technology can be used to create unique pieces for dollhouses, dioramas, tabletop games, and other miniature worlds. Whether you're new to 3D printing or curious about its creative potential, this workshop offers an engaging introduction to the process.

Registration is required for this workshop. To adopt a dollhouse and register, or to ask questions, email Kristen at kthornton-destafeno@rcls.org or call 845-563-3650.

History House is a collaborative initiative of the Newburgh Historical Society, the Newburgh Free Library, and Archtober Newburgh. The program is funded by the Newburgh Free Library.

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Aug
27

Archive Hours

An appointment is required to use library resources.

To schedule an appointment, please call (845) 561-3790 or email info@newburghhistoricalsociety.org.

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Aug
26

Archive Hours

An appointment is required to use library resources.

To schedule an appointment, please call (845) 561-3790 or email info@newburghhistoricalsociety.org.

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Aug
25

Archive Hours

An appointment is required to use library resources.

To schedule an appointment, please call (845) 561-3790 or email info@newburghhistoricalsociety.org.

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Aug
23

Crawford House Open Hours

Explore the historic Crawford House at your own pace or enjoy a guided tour led by one of our board member docents.

Open every Sunday from 1 to 4 PM

Suggested donation: $5

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Aug
20

Cocktails and Collections

Steven Baltsas (Peggy N. Gerry Curatorial Fellow at Preservation Long Island) will deliver a talk entitled “Thomas Powell: Long Island Quaker/Newburgh Capitalist”. An early biography of Newburgh business magnate Thomas Powell called him a member of the “Society of Friends.” Better known as the Quakers, the Society of Friends had deep roots on Long Island, where Powell spent his childhood. In this presentation, Baltsas uses objects - from spinning wheels, to watercolor maps, to Dutch-style wardrobes - to show how Powell’s Quaker upbringing impacted his identity as a capitalist who shaped Newburgh as we know it. Come and enjoy an evening with us at the Crawford House while sipping on a cocktail or mocktail. This lecture is free to the public, though a donation is requested.

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Aug
20

Archive Hours

An appointment is required to use library resources.

To schedule an appointment, please call (845) 561-3790 or email info@newburghhistoricalsociety.org.

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Aug
19

Archive Hours

An appointment is required to use library resources.

To schedule an appointment, please call (845) 561-3790 or email info@newburghhistoricalsociety.org.

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Junior Historian: Researching Your Old House
Aug
18

Junior Historian: Researching Your Old House

Matthew Thorenz is the Local History & Government Documents Librarian at the Newburgh Free Library, where he helps researchers, homeowners, and history enthusiasts uncover the stories hidden in local archives. With expertise in historical records, maps, photographs, newspapers, property documents, and genealogical resources, Matthew enjoys making local history accessible to the community.

In this workshop, participants will learn practical techniques for researching the history of their own homes. From tracing past owners and discovering historic maps to finding photographs, building records, and newspaper articles, Matthew will introduce the tools and resources that can reveal how a house—and the people who lived there—have changed over time. Whether you're restoring an old home, curious about your neighborhood, or simply interested in local history, this workshop will provide a great starting point for uncovering your home's story.

Registration is required for this workshop. To adopt a dollhouse and register, or to ask questions, email Kristen at kthornton-destafeno@rcls.org or call 845-563-3650.

History House is a collaborative initiative of the Newburgh Historical Society, the Newburgh Free Library, and Archtober Newburgh. The program is funded by the Newburgh Free Library.

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Aug
18

Archive Hours

An appointment is required to use library resources.

To schedule an appointment, please call (845) 561-3790 or email info@newburghhistoricalsociety.org.

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Aug
16

Crawford House Open Hours

Explore the historic Crawford House at your own pace or enjoy a guided tour led by one of our board member docents.

Open every Sunday from 1 to 4 PM

Suggested donation: $5

View Event →
Aug
13

Archive Hours

An appointment is required to use library resources.

To schedule an appointment, please call (845) 561-3790 or email info@newburghhistoricalsociety.org.

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Aug
12

Archive Hours

An appointment is required to use library resources.

To schedule an appointment, please call (845) 561-3790 or email info@newburghhistoricalsociety.org.

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Junior Historian: Tiny Art
Aug
11

Junior Historian: Tiny Art

Kristen Thornton-De Stafeno is the Programming, Marketing & Communications Librarian at the Newburgh Free Library, where she develops creative programs that encourage artistic exploration, lifelong learning, and community engagement. She enjoys helping participants discover new ways to express themselves through hands-on making and accessible art techniques.

In this workshop, Kristen will introduce participants to the art of creating tiny works of art for miniature spaces. Using a variety of materials and techniques, participants will make miniature paintings, framed artwork, and other small-scale creations that add personality and charm to dollhouses, dioramas, or decorative displays. Whether you're an experienced artist or simply looking to try something new, this workshop celebrates creativity on a delightfully small scale.

Registration is required for this workshop. To adopt a dollhouse and register, or to ask questions, email Kristen at kthornton-destafeno@rcls.org or call 845-563-3650.

History House is a collaborative initiative of the Newburgh Historical Society, the Newburgh Free Library, and Archtober Newburgh. The program is funded by the Newburgh Free Library.

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Aug
11

Archive Hours

An appointment is required to use library resources.

To schedule an appointment, please call (845) 561-3790 or email info@newburghhistoricalsociety.org.

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Aug
9

Crawford House Open Hours

Explore the historic Crawford House at your own pace or enjoy a guided tour led by one of our board member docents.

Open every Sunday from 1 to 4 PM

Suggested donation: $5

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Aug
6

Archive Hours

An appointment is required to use library resources.

To schedule an appointment, please call (845) 561-3790 or email info@newburghhistoricalsociety.org.

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Aug
5

Archive Hours

An appointment is required to use library resources.

To schedule an appointment, please call (845) 561-3790 or email info@newburghhistoricalsociety.org.

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Aug
4

Archive Hours

An appointment is required to use library resources.

To schedule an appointment, please call (845) 561-3790 or email info@newburghhistoricalsociety.org.

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Junior Historian: Building a Miniature Wall
Aug
3

Junior Historian: Building a Miniature Wall

Dan is a Hudson Valley–based scenic designer, visual artist, and theater educator who loves turning simple materials into extraordinary worlds. As a theater design instructor at SUNY New Paltz, he enjoys sharing the techniques scenic artists use to build everything from realistic walls to fantastical environments.

In this hands-on workshop, participants will learn how to construct and finish a miniature wall using the same principles employed in professional scenic design. Along the way, they'll explore scale, texture, painting, and detail while discovering how everyday materials can be transformed into convincing miniature architecture.

Dan's scenic designs have been seen Off-Broadway, at The Public Theater's Under the Radar Festival, Pittsburgh Opera, the Cell Theatre, and National Queer Theater, among many others. He is a resident artist at the cell theatre, a member of the National Queer Theater Collective, and the artistic director of OFO Theater. He looks forward to sharing the craft of scenic building and helping participants create their own miniature masterpiece.

Registration is required for this workshop. To adopt a dollhouse and register, or to ask questions, email Kristen at kthornton-destafeno@rcls.org or call 845-563-3650.

History House is a collaborative initiative of the Newburgh Historical Society, the Newburgh Free Library, and Archtober Newburgh. The program is funded by the Newburgh Free Library.

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Aug
2

Crawford House Open Hours

Explore the historic Crawford House at your own pace or enjoy a guided tour led by one of our board member docents.

Open every Sunday from 1 to 4 PM

Suggested donation: $5

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Jul
30

Archive Hours

An appointment is required to use library resources.

To schedule an appointment, please call (845) 561-3790 or email info@newburghhistoricalsociety.org.

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Jul
29

Archive Hours

An appointment is required to use library resources.

To schedule an appointment, please call (845) 561-3790 or email info@newburghhistoricalsociety.org.

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Jul
28

Archive Hours

An appointment is required to use library resources.

To schedule an appointment, please call (845) 561-3790 or email info@newburghhistoricalsociety.org.

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Junior Historian: Fiber Arts Decor in Mini
Jul
27

Junior Historian: Fiber Arts Decor in Mini

Kristen Thornton-De Stafeno is the Programming, Marketing & Communications Librarian at the Newburgh Free Library, where she creates engaging programs that inspire creativity, lifelong learning, and community connection. She enjoys introducing participants to a wide range of artistic techniques through welcoming, hands-on workshops.

In this workshop, Kristen will guide participants in creating miniature décor using fiber arts techniques. From tiny textiles and woven accents to miniature soft furnishings and decorative embellishments, participants will explore how fabric, yarn, thread, and other fibers can add warmth, texture, and personality to miniature spaces. Whether you're new to fiber arts or an experienced crafter, this workshop offers a creative opportunity to make unique handmade pieces for dollhouses, dioramas, or other miniature displays.

Registration is required for this workshop. To adopt a dollhouse and register, or to ask questions, email Kristen at kthornton-destafeno@rcls.org or call 845-563-3650.

History House is a collaborative initiative of the Newburgh Historical Society, the Newburgh Free Library, and Archtober Newburgh. The program is funded by the Newburgh Free Library.

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Jul
26

Crawford House Open Hours

Explore the historic Crawford House at your own pace or enjoy a guided tour led by one of our board member docents.

Open every Sunday from 1 to 4 PM

Suggested donation: $5

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Junior Historian: Making in Scale
Jul
20

Junior Historian: Making in Scale

Dan Daly is a Hudson Valley based scenic designer, visual artist, and theater educator who loves building imaginative worlds both full-size and miniature! As a theater design instructor at SUNY New Paltz, Dan enjoys introducing young artists to creative ways of making, building, and storytelling.

In this hands-on workshop, kids will learn how to think like scenic designers as they create tiny objects and environments at scale. Drawing on his experience designing immersive theater, operas, and installations across New York and beyond, Dan encourages curiosity, experimentation, and the joy of making things by hand.

Dan is a resident artist at the cell theatre, a member of the National Queer Theater Collective, and the artistic director of OFO Theater. He can't wait to build tiny worlds with you!

Registration is required for this workshop. To adopt a dollhouse and register, or to ask questions, email Kristen at kthornton-destafeno@rcls.org or call 845-563-3650.

History House is a collaborative initiative of the Newburgh Historical Society, the Newburgh Free Library, and Archtober Newburgh. The program is funded by the Newburgh Free Library.

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Jul
19

Crawford House Open Hours

Explore the historic Crawford House at your own pace or enjoy a guided tour led by one of our board member docents.

Open every Sunday from 1 to 4 PM

Suggested donation: $5

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Jun
18

Cocktails and Collections

Join us as we welcome Matt Thorenz, Local History Librarian at the Newburgh Free Library, who will tell us about the life of Deborah Sampson, who disguised herself as as “Robert Shirtliff” and enlisted in the continental army during the American Revolution. Come and enjoy an evening with us at the Crawford House while sipping on a cocktail or mocktail. This lecture is free to the public, though a donation is requested.

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2026 Historical Society Garden Tour
Jun
7

2026 Historical Society Garden Tour

This year's self-guided Garden Tour tour begins at the Crawford House (189 Montgomery Street) where you will get a map and guide and features 12 beautiful private and community gardens across the City and Town of Newburgh and New Windsor. From charming city backyards to larger suburban gardens in Balmville to vibrant communal spaces like Downing Park, the Newburgh Armory Unity Center Community Garden and ADS Warehouse Garden, you'll discover a rich variety of local garden spaces, many of which are not open to the public. 

Tickets are just $25 per person and can be purchased online up until Sunday, June 7 at 9:45 AM. Tickets can then be purchased in person at the Crawford House! 

The day will also include a plant sale by the Community Garden Club of Marlborough-on-Hudson from 10am-12pm and live music by Lisa Pellegrino and Soil and Soul from 11am-12pm.

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